Contents

Appearance

Areo is broad-shouldered with white hair. He bears a longaxe that has a shaft six feet long.[2]

History

Areo was born in Norvos[3] as the youngest of six children. He was sold to the bearded priests of Norvos at a young age. When he was sixteen years old, he completed his training. He was wedded to his axe and branded on his chest to signify the event.[2] He became a guardsman to the family of Lady Mellario, and was present the day she first met her future husband, Prince Doran Martell.[3][4] He escorted Mellario when she traveled with Prince Doran to Dorne, having learned Westerosi speech. Upon arrival in Dorne, Areo found it a strange place; the Dornish women were lewd, Dornish wine was sour, and Dornish food was full of queer hot spices. He also thought the Dornish sun was hotter than the pale, wan sun of Norvos.[5] Areo entered the service of House Martell, and Mellario married Doran.[2]

Areo watched all of Doran and Mellario's children grow up, and developed a father-like love for Princess Arianne Martell, whom he refers to as "little princess."[2][5] Despite this affection, however, he is utterly loyal to Prince Doran.[2][6] Areo eventually became the captain of Prince Doran's guard, and remained in Dorne to serve House Martell even after Mellario returned to Norvos. Even after all his years in Dorne, Areo still reminds himself of the vows he took when he was sixteen, "Serve. Obey. Protect."[2]

When Doran Martell moved from Sunspear to the Water Gardens due to his deteriorating health, Areo accompanied him. On occasion, Areo is sent to Sunspear by Doran.[2]

A Dance with Dragons

Areo is present at the feast where Ser Balon Swann presents Prince Doran Martell with the skull of Gregor Clegane. Areo notes that Swann looks to be a more formidable warrior than Ser Arys had been, and wonders if it will come to a fight between them as well.[5] Areo is present when Prince Doran discusses his plans in a private solar with Arianne and Obara, Nymeria and Tyene Sand.[5]